The Earth Systems Ecology Lab at the University of New Mexico is recruiting a PhD student for a tree regeneration project combining field experiments with forest ecosystem modeling. The project studies whether planting tree seedlings upslope can help species adapt to climate change in the Intermountain West, and how assisted migration affects forest productivity. It is a collaboration with Daniel Laughlin at the University of Wyoming.
Institution: University of New Mexico (Earth Systems Ecology Lab, Hurteau lab; more information at www.hurteaulab.org)
Field: Forest ecology, tree regeneration, ecosystem modeling (LANDIS-II)
Level: PhD
Funding: Student support includes some combination of teaching and research assistantships, with summer salary support and research project support.
Eligibility: Only US citizens and permanent residents are being considered. International applicants will not receive a response. The lab is looking for a strong quantitative background and interest in forest ecosystems and in combining experimental field data with ecosystem modeling.
Deadline: Applications are reviewed starting Nov 9, 2026. The UNM Biology priority deadline is Dec 1, 2026. Interviews will be completed before that date.
How to apply: Read the student positions page on the lab website (www.hurteaulab.org). If still interested, email a single PDF containing your CV, a one-page statement of research interests, and unofficial transcripts to mhurteau@unm.edu. GRE scores are not required.
Field work includes planting and monitoring seedlings in common gardens in New Mexico and Wyoming. Summer field seasons are spent at sites in northern New Mexico, and fieldwork involves camping.
